4 1/4 x 4 3/4 inches

$4,500.00

HERE’S PROOF! Mathew Brady and his stable of excellent daguerreotypists consistently won a myriad of awards for their premium quality daguerreotypes in the late 1840s. Embossed inside the fine leather push button case, that measured 4 ¾ x 5 ½ inches; on a burgundy toned velvet pad was “Brady’s Gallery 205 & 207 Broadway New York”. In Craig’s Daguerreian Registry John mentioned that Brady used these dual addresses in 1848-1849, which fits the timeframe of this chap’s magnificent holographic portrait perfectly! When Casey removed the dag to perform the professional conservation he called me into his office. We were both amazed to see that the surface of the likeness was the same size as the stamped foil mat, 4 &frac14 x 4 &frac34 inches, that was lined with a layer of compressed paper underneath. While we aren’t certain if Brady’s operations were the first to use this particular mat style, we have seen it in examples by Vance, Hesler and to a lesser extent by other makers. I can’t recall having previously seen a Brady image done like this fellow’s masterwork with similar dimensions, which makes me wonder if this particular character was a very important person and requested something different? I also need to mention that on the reverse of this fine dag, a mustard colored wax is extant. This application was peculiar to Brady’s New York establishment. Please forget about the wayward oxidation and those spots caused by earlier horrific glass. Rather focus on the intense power and wealth that oozed from the man’s extraordinary image. The careful use of layers of pigments painted on his face created a lifelike impression on the holographic silver. If you require one Brady portrait for your collection that will resonate stronger then 99% of all others, you might consider this brilliant achievement that has astounding contrast and tonality!

Terms of Sales

Purchasing: The first person to inquiry (via phone 603-772-9065 or email dennis@finedags.com) will have the first opportunity to acquire the item.

Payment: When a daguerreotype or photograph is purchased, the total price for the image plus shipping and insurance will be given. Payment must be received in five working days or the image will be sold to the next interested buyer. For your convenience, I will accept a check, money order or PayPal at the time of your phone call/email. Please be certain to include your correct shipping address, phone number and email address during the transaction. We will gladly ship all images internationally.

Shipping: Since we have recently had an incident with the USPS I have decided that from now on, Erin, Casey and I will send every image through the mail requiring a certified mail receipt that requires your signature. The additional charge will be $3.45, plus the cost of the Priority Mail. We will waive the signature requirement if you make a purchase from us and tell us in an email that you would like the parcel sent Priority Mail with the normal delivery confirmation slip. I know how bothersome this is, but we want to provide the best images and service possible, within the limitations of the carriers we work with. As for insurance on packages, don't believe for a moment that carriers who allow you to purchase it, will completely back up any claim.

Guarantee: I will make every effort to faithfully reproduce and describe each item. Upon receipt of the daguerreotype, case or related item; if you are dissatisfied for any reason, it may be returned (in the original condition along with proper packaging and insurance) within three working days. I would appreciate a call or email first to let me know of your intentions. A full refund, minus the initial shipping and insurance costs will be made.

Fine Daguerreotypes & Photography is a family affair. We diligently search out the finest daguerreotypes, ambrotypes, tintypes and photography. We take great pride in our presentations and services. We sincerely hope that you will find images to add to your collections. Thank you for your support.